Management Accountant

Harper May Ltd; Croydon; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education group in Croydon is seeking a Management Accountant to support its financial operations. You will prepare management accounts, VAT returns, and financial analysis while working closely with multiple departments. The ideal candidate is a part-qualified or qualified accountant with strong Excel skills and experience in preparing management accounts. This role offers a collaborative work environment and a hands-on approach to finance.

Qualifications

• Experience in preparing management accounts and VAT returns.
• Previous experience in the education or not-for-profit sector is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Prepare consolidated monthly management accounts.
• Lead month-end processes, including journal entries.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns.
• Maintain and reconcile the Fixed Asset Register.
• Produce variance analysis and support budget preparation.
• Oversee financial controls.

Skills

Management accounts preparation

VAT returns

Strong Excel skills

Accounting software proficiency

Attention to detail

Education

Part-qualified or qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

Tools

Sage

Xero

Job description

Harper May is partnering with a leading education group that is seeking a Management Accountant to support its day-to-day financial operations. With a focus on excellence and service across multiple sites, the organisation is entering a key phase of development and requires a strong finance professional to help deliver effective financial reporting and forecasting.

Role Overview:

Reporting to the Finance Manager, the Management Accountant will take ownership of the monthly management accounts, VAT returns, and financial analysis. This is a broad and hands-on role with exposure across multiple departments and group entities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare consolidated monthly management accounts and supporting reports

• Lead month-end processes, including journal entries, reconciliations, and accruals

• Prepare and submit VAT returns and contribute to year-end audit preparation

• Maintain and reconcile the Fixed Asset Register

• Produce variance analysis and support budget preparation and forecasting

• Oversee financial controls and support process improvement initiatives

• Line manage the Accounts Payable Officer and provide cover where necessary

• Assist with project finance, intercompany billing, and cash flow reporting

Candidate Profile:

• Part-qualified or qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

• Experience in preparing management accounts and VAT returns

• Strong Excel skills and proficiency in accounting software (Sage, Xero or similar)

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to meet strict deadlines

• Previous experience in the education or not-for-profit sector is advantageous

• Clear communicator with a collaborative mindset and a flexible approach